River Pilgrimage
About this episode
Martha Kearney explores a modern river pilgrimage along the River Medway, focusing on environmental issues and the cultural significance of such journeys.
Pilgrimages are usually associated with the Middle Ages, when they were at their peak. Banned by Henry VIII in the 16th century, they are now regaining popularity. In this programme, Martha Kearney joins a group of people on a river pilgrimage in Kent. They're spending ten days walking the entire route of the River Medway, from its source in the High Weald in Sussex to the point where it empties into the Thames estuary - seventy miles in all. The aim is partly to highlight the current plight of the river, and to spend time monitoring pollution levels, clearing away litter and learning about its importance in the landscape. Martha meets the Director of the Friends of the River Medway who explains about the river's environmental state and its cultural significance. She also talks to the founder of the British Pilgrimage Trust and finds out why people are being drawn to pilgrimages in the 21st century, learning that they are not necessarily religious, but more a case of "bring your own beliefs". Producer: Emma Campbell Photo courtesy of the Friends of the River Medway: www.formedway.org
People in this episode
Host: Martha Kearney
Topics covered
- pilgrimage
- environment
- pollution
- cultural significance
- walking
- nature
Keywords
- river pilgrimage
- River Medway
- pollution monitoring
- cultural significance
- walking pilgrimage
- environmental state
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Friends of the River Medway, British Pilgrimage Trust
Places: Kent, River Medway, Thames estuary, High Weald
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